Former Cincinnati Bengals star running back Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45, the NFL team said on Tuesday.
In a tribute on their Web site, the Bengals recalled Johnson’s on-field exploits, his popularity with teammates and his deep connection with Cincinnati fans.
No cause of death was given, but celebrity news Web site TMZ reported he died by suicide and cited an unnamed family source as saying Johnson had recently struggled with mental health issues.
Photo: AFP
Johnson was drafted 100th overall by the Bengals in 2001.
He put up two of the best rushing seasons in Bengals history in 2004 and 2005. In 2004, he rushed for a franchise record 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns, and in 2005 he broke his own record with 1,458 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
He is fourth on Cincinnati’s all-time rushing list with 5,742 career yards.
In 2005, he helped establish the Rudi Johnson Foundation to “give back to the community that nurtured him,” the organization’s Web site says.
Johnson played his final NFL season in 2008 with the Detroit Lions.
He was remembered on Tuesday by six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, who posted a photo of his former teammate on X.
“R.I.P. Rudi Johnson,” Chad Johnson wrote.
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